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- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research on decentralised systems and remanufacturing for a sustainable future.
- Company: Join Imperial College London, a top global university driving impactful scientific advancements.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 41 days off, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team at a world-leading institution with excellent career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the circular economy while collaborating with leading experts.
- Qualifications: PhD in Engineering or related field with a passion for decentralised technologies.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 50000 £ per year.
We are seeking an outstanding Postdoctoral Research Associate to contribute to a high-impact research programme focused on decentralised systems and distributed ledger technologies (DLTs) in the context of the circular economy and remanufacturing in particular. This role will explore how large-scale, decentralised architectures can enable trusted, efficient, and autonomous coordination without centralised control, advancing both theoretical foundations and real-world application.
You will be based in Imperial's I3-Lab, a hub for interdisciplinary research bridging AI, systems theory, and digital infrastructure, and work in close collaboration with the IOTA Foundation. The ideal candidate will have a strong mathematical, engineering and/or systems background, with expertise in one or more of the following areas: network theory, control systems, mechanics and design, or manufacturing. A demonstrated interest in decentralised technologies and their societal impact is essential.
What you would be doing
You will carry out original research at the intersection of decentralised systems and remanufacture. Working within a vibrant, interdisciplinary team, you will design, model, and analyse new mechanisms for trust, coordination, and governance in distributed environments. Areas of focus include, but are not limited to:
- Incentive and compliance mechanisms for decentralised platforms
- Safe and verifiable decentralised AI systems
- Informed decision-making through data-driven predictive models and digital twinning
You will also engage with external collaborators (including IOTA and CSEP), contribute to the mentoring of students and junior researchers, and help shape the strategic direction of the research group. Dissemination through top-tier publications and active participation in academic and industry forums will be expected.
What we are looking for
The ideal candidate will hold a PhD (or equivalent experience) in Engineering or a closely related discipline. They will have a strong foundation in one or more of the following areas: (re-)manufacture, condition monitoring or digital twinning, and a demonstrated interest in decentralised systems and distributed ledgers. They will be an independent researcher with a track record of high-quality publications and experience working in collaborative, interdisciplinary environments. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and project management skills are essential, as is the ability to support and lead small research teams. The candidate will be proactive in contributing to both academic outputs and the broader strategic goals of the lab, including engagement with external partners such as the IOTA Foundation and CSEP. They will demonstrate intellectual curiosity, research ambition, and a commitment to developing trustworthy digital infrastructure for decentralised coordination in the sharing economy.
What we can offer you
The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity. Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes). Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.
Further information
This is a full-time and fixed-term for 18 months role. Please refer to the job description for a complete list of responsibilities, and the desirable and essential requirements. If you require any further details about the role, please contact Prof Robert Shorten, r.shorten@imperial.ac.uk.
Please note that job descriptions are not exhaustive, and you may be asked to take on additional duties that align with the key responsibilities mentioned above. We reserve the right to close the advert prior to the closing date stated should we receive a high volume of applications. It is therefore advisable that you submit your application as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
If you encounter any technical issues while applying online, please don't hesitate to email us at support.jobs@imperial.ac.uk. We're here to help.
About Imperial
Welcome to Imperial, a global top ten university where scientific imagination leads to world-changing impact. Join us and be part of something bigger. From global health to climate change, AI to business leadership, here at Imperial we navigate some of the world's toughest challenges. Whatever your role, your contribution will have a lasting impact. As a member of our vibrant community of 22,000 students and 8,000 staff, you'll collaborate with passionate minds across nine London campuses and a global network. This is your chance to help shape the future. We hope you'll join us at Imperial College London.
Our Culture
We work towards equality of opportunity, to eliminating discrimination, and to creating an inclusive working environment for all. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, communities and industries, and are committed to employing a team that has diverse skills, experiences and abilities. You can read more about our commitment on our webpages. Our values are at the root of everything we do and everyone in our community is expected to demonstrate respect, collaboration, excellence, integrity, and innovation.
Research Associate in Remanufacture for the Circular Economy in London employer: SONICOM
Contact Detail:
SONICOM Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Remanufacture for the Circular Economy in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the IOTA Foundation or similar organisations. Attend events, webinars, and workshops to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio of your research work, publications, and projects related to decentralised systems and remanufacturing. This will help you stand out during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your research interests and how they align with the role at Imperial. Tailor your conversation to highlight your problem-solving skills and collaborative experiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our vibrant community at Imperial.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Remanufacture for the Circular Economy in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in decentralised systems and remanufacturing. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects or research!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for the circular economy and decentralised technologies shine through in your application. We love candidates who are genuinely interested in making a difference, so share any personal projects or insights that demonstrate your commitment.
Highlight Collaboration Skills: Since this role involves working closely with interdisciplinary teams and external partners, be sure to mention your teamwork and communication skills. We’re looking for someone who can engage effectively with others, so share examples of successful collaborations.
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We might close the advert early if we get a lot of applications, so get yours in as soon as you can. Remember, applying through our website is the best way to ensure your application is seen!
How to prepare for a job interview at SONICOM
✨Know Your Research
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest developments in decentralised systems and remanufacturing. Familiarise yourself with key concepts like digital twinning and compliance mechanisms, as these will likely come up during your interview.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since this role involves working closely with interdisciplinary teams and external partners like the IOTA Foundation, be prepared to discuss your previous collaborative experiences. Highlight specific projects where you successfully worked with others to achieve common goals.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities, especially in relation to network theory and control systems. Think of examples from your past research where you tackled complex issues and how you approached them.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion
Express your enthusiasm for the circular economy and decentralised technologies. Share your vision for how your research can contribute to societal impact, and don’t hesitate to discuss any innovative ideas you have for future projects.